Globe artichoke – a vegetable, herb and ornamental of value in central Europe:

Abstract

SummaryGlobe artichoke [Cynara cardunculus L. var. scolymus (L.) Fiori] is an important vegetable from the Mediterranean Basin. There is rich ethno-botanical documentation to show that artichoke has been a valued vegetable species in central Europe since the 16th century. Historically, globe artichoke was described as a refined garden plant with a wide spectrum of use. In the 20th century, it was largely neglected in this region, but has now been re-introduced thanks to modern cultivation technology and the widespread availability of seed-propagated cultivars characterised by having reliable yields and morphological homogeneity. Based on plant biology, genetic resources, and modern growing techniques, we discuss the possibilities for developing globe artichoke production in central Europe as a high-quality resource for the food and pharmaceutical industries in the near future. Globe artichoke is widely considered to be a rich source of bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, inulin, anthocyanins, fibre, and essential minerals, to which the therapeutic properties of the species have been ascribed. Inter alia, it has been used as a choleretic, an inhibitor of cholesterol biosynthesis, an anti-atherosclerotic, and for its anti-bacterial, anti-HIV, bile-expelling, hepatoprotective, urinative, anti-oxidant, and anti-carcinogenic properties.We assess the chemical composition of globe artichoke, grown for herbal and culinary purposes in its traditional regions of cultivation and at higher latitudes.We also emphasise the excellent nutritional and pharmacological qualities of globe artichoke cultivated under temperate climatic conditions, together with alternative periods of fresh product supply from those traditional in Mediterranean countries. A wide spectrum of alternative uses for globe artichoke is discussed, along with various perspectives regarding expansion of the borders currently defined for artichoke production. This review also focusses on the underlying attractiveness of globe artichoke to develop new and valuable products to enhance its genetic diversity, as well as to broaden its market. Traditional and unique uses for globe artichoke are considered in the context of of sustainable development for European agriculture and improving the quality of human life.